The ultimate guide to yarn shopping in Amsterdam

If you’re in Amsterdam, you’re in luck! This city holds sooo many great places to source yarn, it’s sure to be a bit overwhelming. There are different places for different needs, including more affordable options and stores with amazingly curated collections.

We’ve made a list of our favourite places to buy yarn in Amsterdam – written by self-appointed yarn connoisseurs whose stashes fill every crevice of their houses (don’t blame us if you start hoarding after reading this list 😋).

Physical Stores

Support your locals! Shop curated collections! Feel fibres before you buy! Visit the stores below for the best of all worlds.

Stephen & Penelope | €€€€

• Location: Nieuwe Hoogstraat 29, 1011 HD

Definitely visit Stephen & Penelope if you want to treat yourself to a gorgeous hand-dyed skein! They have a great curated selection of high-quality yarns (including my absolute fave, Qing fibre), as well as unique patterns written by the founders. It’s the priciest store on our list, but we’d even recommend a visit just to get inspired. Their staff is very sweet and helpful, too. Find their collection online here.

Yarnhugs | €€

• Location: Kinkerstraat 308, 1053 GJ

Yarnhugs is an intimate yarn shop in West run by the very friendly owner Meryem. With a wide selection of luxury materials alongside budget-friendly options, you'll find the perfect yarn for any project. The prices are very reasonable, and the shop's peaceful atmosphere makes it a welcoming haven for all crochet (and knitting) enthusiasts. Find their collection online here.

De Afstap | €€€

• Location: Oude Leliestraat 12, 1015 AW

Known for its extensive range of local (European) yarns and patterns, De Afstap is a cosy store with knowledgeable staff. It’s a great spot to source monochromatic yarn, especially if you’re looking for quality materials (they have a great range of mohair, cashmere and silk yarns). It’s relatively affordable for a high-end store. They also have a range of craft books. Find their collection online here.

Søstrene Grene | €€

• Location: Nieuwendijk 219, 1012 MH

Although they’re not strictly a yarn store, Søstrene Grene does hold an affordable range of yarn that’s great considering the price. They have wool and bamboo skeins, but I personally really like their cotton 8/4 yarn, which I used to make this summery wrap skirt. Find their collection online here.

Rataplan | €

• Locations: Van Slingelandtstraat 39, 1051 CG; Generatorstraat 10, 1014 AT;

Sourcing yarn at thrift stores great option for a budget, eco-friendly buy! You can find a little yarn corner in every Rataplan store – selections vary (obviously), but isn’t it just that bit more satisfying when you find a gorgeous fibre? Most times I’ve visited, I’ve found a selection of knitting needles and yarn hooks as well, so it’s perfect if you want to learn new techniques and don’t need a specific hook/yarn.

Zeeman | €

• Various locations across Amsterdam, check zeeman.nl for a location in your area

If you're just starting out with crocheting, the affordable yarns from Zeeman make for a perfect starting point. Their selection primarily includes acrylic yarn in various colours, which keep the prices low. This makes it easier for beginners to experiment without worrying about the cost. Find their collection online here.

Webshops

Ordering yarn online can be a convenient option if you don’t want to spend hours dwelling in stores in the city. Plus, it’s a great way to keep an eye on discounts. The stores below are our favourite picks.

Badcattoo Yarn | €€

• Website: https://www.badcattooyarn.com/

Badcattoo Yarn is a webshop that sells unique, hand-dyed skeins, including sock yarns and hand-spun wool – all designed and dyed by the owner, Francoise! If you love supporting local one woman-businesses as much as I do, please take a look at her shop. I’ve ordered multiple skeins in the past and the colours definitely don’t disappoint; they’re so vibrant and beautifully crafted. These uranium sleeves were made using mohair by Badcattoo Yarn.

Breiwebshop | €-€€

• Website: https://www.breiwebshop.nl/

Breiwebshop has a huge range of classic yarn brands, including DROPS, Lang Yarns, Scheepjes and Katia. They also have a relatively low threshold for free shipping, which makes it a great option if you’re buying multiple skeins.

Wolplein | €-€€

• Website: https://www.wolplein.nl/

Similar to Breiwebshop, Wolplein has a great selection of affordable brands. They also have a range of (free) patterns. Be sure to check their discount section!

Bonus: Other stores

A. Boeken | €€

• Location: Nieuwe Hoogstraat 33A, 1011 HD

Conveniently located next to Stephen & Penelope, A. Boeken holds a large collection of fabrics and supplies, including a fun range of (vintage) buttons.

De Knopenwinkel | €€

• Location: Herengracht 383-389, 1016 BC

So! Many! Buttons!!! If you need some for your next project, be sure not to miss De Knopenwinkel.

Coppenhagen | €€

• Location: Rozengracht 54, 1016 ND Amsterdam

Discover this treature trove of beads and beyond! Coppenhagen is the oldest beads store of the Netherlands. They sell jewelry tools as well to bring all your creative visions to life.

Zigzag Fournituren | €

• Location: Ten Katestraat 20, 1053 CE

Great, affordable option for craft supplies run by friendly employees who are willing to help.